U.S. Drug Czar Praises Mexico's Success Against Drug Cartel Leader El Mencho

Sara Carter, the director of the U.S. Office of National Drug Control Policy, commended Mexican authorities for their recent successful operation against Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, known as El Mencho, leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG). This operation, which resulted in El Mencho's death, also seized nearly two tons of methamphetamine and 53 kilograms of fentanyl, preventing an estimated 79 million doses from reaching U.S. streets. The U.S. and Mexican governments are collaborating closely to combat drug trafficking, with Carter emphasizing the importance of this partnership in enhancing national security. The operation signifies a significant blow to the CJNG, which the ONDCP classifies as a foreign terrorist organization.

Key Details: • Operation against El Mencho resulted in the seizure of nearly 2 tons of methamphetamine and 53 kg of fentanyl. • Estimated financial loss for criminal groups from the operation is 594 million pesos (approximately $33 million). • Sara Carter and U.S. Ambassador Ronald Johnson met with Mexican military and security leaders to discuss the operation.